Distributed low voltage power systems

ABSTRACT

A distributed low voltage power system is disclosed herein. The system can include a power source generating line voltage power, and a line voltage cable having a first end and a second end, where the line voltage end is coupled to the power source. The system can also include a power distribution module (PDM) having a power transfer device and an output channel. The system can further include a communication link coupled to the output channel of the PDM. The system can also include a point-of-load (POL) control device coupled to the output channel of the PDM using the communication link, where the POL control device generates a distributed LV signal using a LV signal received from the PDM. The system can further include at least one LV device coupled to the point-of-load control device, where the distributed LV signal provides power regulation to the at least one LV device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part application of and claimspriority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/695,535, titled“Distributed Low Voltage Power Systems”, filed on Apr. 24, 2015, whichclaims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/003,607, titled “Distributed Low Voltage PowerSystems” and filed on May 28, 2014. The entire contents of theabove-mentioned applications are hereby incorporated herein byreference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments described herein relate generally to power distributionsystems, and more particularly to systems, methods, and devices for lowvoltage power distribution systems.

BACKGROUND

Certain devices within distributed power systems can operate ondifferent types (e.g., direct current (DC), alternating current (AC))and/or amounts (e.g., 24V, 2A, 120V, 50 mA) of power relative to thetype and amount of power that feeds the distributed power system.Further, the devices receiving power from the device distributing thepower within the distributed power system can be located relativelyclose.

SUMMARY

In general, in one aspect, the disclosure relates to a distributed lowvoltage power system. The distributed low voltage power system caninclude a power source generating line voltage power. The distributedlow voltage power system can also include a first line voltage cablehaving a first line voltage end and a second line voltage end, where thefirst line voltage end is coupled to the power source. The distributedlow voltage power system can further include a first power distributionmodule (PDM) having a first power transfer device, where the second linevoltage end of the first line voltage cable is coupled to the first PDM,where the first PDM receives the input power from the power sourcethrough the first line voltage cable, where the first power transferdevice generates a first low-voltage (LV) signal from the input power,and where the first PDM comprises a first output channel. Thedistributed low voltage power system can also include a firstcommunication link coupled to the first output channel of the PDM. Thedistributed low voltage power system can further include a firstpoint-of-load (POL) control device coupled to the first output channelof the first PDM using the first communication link, where the first POLcontrol device generates at least one first distributed LV signal basedon the first LV signal received from the first PDM. The distributed lowvoltage power system can also include at least one first LV devicecoupled to the first POL control device, where the first POL controldevice sends the at least one first distributed LV signal to the atleast one first LV device, where the at least one first distributed LVsignal provides power regulation to the at least one first LV device.

In another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a powerdistribution module. The power distribution module can include an inputportion configured to receive line voltage power from a power source.The power distribution module can also include a power transfer deviceelectrically coupled to the input portion, where the power transferdevice is configured to generate at least one low-voltage (LV) signalusing the line voltage power. The power distribution module can furtherinclude an output section electrically coupled to the power transferdevice and having a number of channels, where each channel of the outputsection is configured to deliver the at least one LV signal to apoint-of-load (POL) control device using at least one communicationlink, where the POL control device generates at least one distributed LVsignal based on the at least one LV signal received from the outputsection, where the at least one distributed LV signal provides powerregulation to at least one LV device.

In yet another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to apoint-of-load (POL) control module. The POL control module can includean input portion configured to receive a first communication link thatcarries at least one low-voltage (LV) signal. The POL control module canalso include a controller device electrically coupled to the inputportion, where the controller device generates at least one distributedLV signal based on the at least one LV signal. The POL control modulecan further include an output section electrically coupled to thecontroller device and having a number of channels, where each channel ofthe output section is configured to deliver the at least one distributedLV signal for use by at least one LV device.

These and other aspects, objects, features, and embodiments will beapparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate only example embodiments of distributed lowvoltage power systems and are therefore not to be considered limiting ofits scope, as distributed low voltage power systems may admit to otherequally effective embodiments. The elements and features shown in thedrawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placedupon clearly illustrating the principles of the example embodiments.Additionally, certain dimensions or positionings may be exaggerated tohelp visually convey such principles. In the drawings, referencenumerals designate like or corresponding, but not necessarily identical,elements.

FIG. 1 shows a system diagram of a distributed power system currentlyknown in the art.

FIG. 2 shows a system diagram of a distributed low voltage power systemin accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 3 shows a system diagram of another distributed low voltage powersystem in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 4 shows a system diagram of yet another distributed low voltagepower system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 5 shows a system diagram of still another distributed low voltagepower system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show a system diagram of yet another distributed lowvoltage power system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 7 shows a system diagram of yet another distributed low voltagepower system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 8 shows a system diagram of still another distributed low voltagepower system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show a system diagram of yet another distributed lowvoltage power system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The example embodiments discussed herein are directed to systems,apparatuses, and methods of distributed low voltage power systems. Whileexample embodiments described herein are directed to use with lightingsystems, example embodiments can also be used in systems having othertypes of devices. Examples of such other systems can include, but arenot limited to, security systems, fire protection systems, emergencymanagement systems, and assembly systems. Thus, example embodiments arenot limited to use with lighting systems.

Example embodiments can be used with one or more of any number of lowvoltage system infrastructures. For instance, example embodiments canuse Ethernet cables coupled to output channels of a power-over-Ethernet(PoE) switch, where the PDM (defined below) and/or a point-of-load (POL)controller (also defined below) acts as the POE switch. As anotherexample, the PDM can serve as a gateway, where multiple devices areconnected to the output channels of the PDM. In this way, the PDM canact as a POL controller. As yet another example, the PDM can act as agateway, which in turn can cause the PDM to act as a POL controller.

As defined herein, a mode of operation is defined by certain factorsexisting or not existing and/or by certain components of an examplesystem described herein operating or not operating. For example, a firstmode of operation can be defined when a primary power source deliversline voltage power, and a second mode of operation can be defined whenthe primary power source fails to deliver line voltage power. As anotherexample, a first mode of operation can be defined during “off peak”hours when power prices are relatively low, and a second mode ofoperation can be defined during “peak” hours when power prices arerelatively high.

As described herein, a user can be any person that interacts withexample distributed low voltage power systems. Examples of a user mayinclude, but are not limited to, a consumer, an electrician, anengineer, a mechanic, a pipe fitter, an instrumentation and controltechnician, a consultant, a contractor, an operator, and amanufacturer's representative. For any figure shown and describedherein, one or more of the components may be omitted, added, repeated,and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments shown in a particularfigure should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements ofcomponents shown in such figure.

Further, a statement that a particular embodiment (e.g., as shown in afigure herein) does not have a particular feature or component does notmean, unless expressly stated, that such embodiment is not capable ofhaving such feature or component. For example, for purposes of presentor future claims herein, a feature or component that is described as notbeing included in an example embodiment shown in one or more particulardrawings is capable of being included in one or more claims thatcorrespond to such one or more particular drawings herein.

Further, if a component of a figure is described but not expressly shownor labeled in that figure, the label used for a corresponding componentin another figure can be inferred to that component. Conversely, if acomponent in a figure is labeled but not described, the description forsuch component can be substantially the same as the description for thecorresponding component in another figure. The numbering scheme for thevarious components in the figures herein is such that each component isa three digit number and corresponding components in other figures havethe identical last two digits.

In certain example embodiments, the distributed low voltage powersystems (or portions thereof) described herein meet one or more of anumber of standards, codes, regulations, and/or other requirementsestablished and maintained by one or more entities. Examples of suchentities include, but are not limited to, Underwriters' Laboratories,the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and the NationalFire Protection Association. For example, wiring (the wire itself and/orthe installation of such wire) that electrically couples an example PDM(defined below) with a device may fall within one or more standards setforth in the National Electric Code (NEC). Specifically, the NEC definesClass 1 circuits and Class 2 circuits under various Articles, dependingon the application of use.

Class 1 circuits under the NEC typically operate using line voltages(e.g., between 120 VAC and 600 VAC). The wiring used for Class 1circuits under the NEC must be run in raceways, conduit, and enclosuresfor splices and terminations. Consequently, wiring for Class 1 circuitsmust be installed by a licensed electrical professional. By contrast,Class 2 circuits under the NEC typically operate at lower power levels(e.g., up to 100 VA, no more than 60 VDC). The wiring used for Class 2circuits under the NEC does not need to be run in raceways, conduit,and/or enclosures for splices and terminations. Specifically, the NECdefines a Class 2 circuit as that portion of a wiring system between theload side of a Class 2 power source and the connected equipment. Due toits power limitations, a Class 2 circuit is considered safe from a fireinitiation standpoint and provides acceptable protection from electricalshock. Consequently, wiring for Class 2 circuits can be installed bysomeone other than a licensed electrical professional.

As another example, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)sets and maintains multiple standards and categorizations of electricalsupply for a system. One such categorization is separated or safetyextra-low voltage (SELV) is an electrical system in which the voltagecannot exceed 25 V AC RMS (root-mean-square) (35 V AC peak) or 60 V DCunder dry, normal conditions, and under single-fault conditions,including earth faults in other circuits. Another such categorization isprotected extra-low voltage (PELV) is an electrical system in which thevoltage cannot exceed 25 V AC RMS (35 V AC peak) or 60 V DC under dry,normal conditions, and under single-fault conditions, except earthfaults in other circuits. Yet another such categorization is functionalextra-low voltage (FELV) is an electrical system in which the voltagecannot exceed 25 V AC RMS (35 V AC peak) or 60 V DC under normalconditions.

Example embodiments of distributed low voltage power systems will bedescribed more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, in which example embodiments of distributed low voltage powersystems are shown. Distributed low voltage power systems may, however,be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed aslimited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, theseexample embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will bethorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of distributedlow voltage power systems to those of ordinary skill in the art. Like,but not necessarily the same, elements (also sometimes calledcomponents) in the various figures are denoted by like referencenumerals for consistency.

Terms such as “first” and “second” are used merely to distinguish onecomponent (or part of a component or state of a component) from another.Such terms are not meant to denote a preference or a particularorientation, and are not meant to limit embodiments of distributed lowvoltage power systems. In the following detailed description of theexample embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth in order toprovide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, it willbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the invention maybe practiced without these specific details. In other instances,well-known features have not been described in detail to avoidunnecessarily complicating the description.

FIG. 1 shows a system diagram of a distributed power system 100currently known in the art. The system 100 of FIG. 1 includes a powersource 110, a number (in this case, four) of troffer lights 130, anumber (in this case, three) of can lights 150, a number (in this case,one) of sensing devices 140, and a number (in this case, one) ofcontrollers 190. All of these components of the system 100 areelectrically coupled to each other by a number of line voltage cables102. Operational components of the system 100 (or any system describedherein), such as the troffer lights 130, the can lights 150, and thesensing devices 140 can be referred to generally as “LV devices”. Asdefined herein, a LV device 108 can be any device coupled to the outputchannel of a POL control device 109 (defined below) to receive an LVsignal. In this case, the LV devices 108 include the troffer lights 130,the can lights 150, the controllers 190, the inverter 160, the walloutlet 170, the photocell/timer 141, and the sensing device 140

The sensing device 140 can be any device that detects one or moreconditions. Examples of a sensing device 140 can include, but are notlimited to, a photocell, a motion detector, an audio detector, apressure detector, a temperature sensor, and an air flow sensor. Thecontroller 190 can be any device that controls one or more of the otherdevices in the system 100. Examples of a controller 190 can include, butare not limited to, a thermostat, a dimmer switch, a control switch, acontrol panel, and a power switch. A controller 190 can also be calledby other names, including but not limited to a master controller, anexternal controller, and a network manager. A controller 190 can becoupled to any of a number of PDMs and/or other components in any of anumber of systems.

The power source 110 generates and/or delivers, directly or indirectly,electrical power that is a higher voltage than the voltage ultimatelyused by the various low-voltage (LV) devices (e.g., troffer lights 130,can lights 150, sensing device 140) in the system 100. The powergenerated or delivered by the power source 110 can be called linevoltage power. The line voltage power is a power that is typicallydelivered to a house, building, or other similar structure that supplieselectricity located within or proximate to such structure. The powersource 110 can also generate DC power. Examples of voltages generated bythe power source 110 can include 120 VAC, 240 VAC, 277 VAC, and 480 VAC.If the line voltage power is AC power, the frequency can be 50 Hz, 60Hz, or some other frequency. Examples of a power source 110 can include,but are not limited to, a battery, a solar panel, a wind turbine, apower capacitor, an energy storage device, a power transformer, a fuelcell, a generator, and a circuit panel. As defined herein, a linevoltage includes any of a number of voltages that is typically at leastas great as the maximum LV signal (described below), and that istypically a nominal service voltage such as 120 VAC, 277 VAC, or 480VDC.

The line voltage power is sent, directly or indirectly, from the powersource 110 to the other components of the system 100 using the linevoltage cables 102. The line voltage cables 102 can include one or moreconductors made of one or more electrically conductive materials (e.g.,copper, aluminum). The size (e.g., gauge) of the line voltage cables 102(and/or conductors therein) are sufficient to carry the line voltagepower of the power source 110. Each line voltage cable 102 may be coatedwith an insulator made of any suitable material (e.g., rubber, plastic)to keep the electrical conductors electrically isolated from any otherconductor in the line voltage cable 102.

In certain example embodiments, one or more of the LV devices 108 (inthis case, the light troffers 130, the can lights 150, the sensingdevice 140, and the controller 190) in the system 100 that receive theline voltage power from the power source 110 use an amount and/or type(e.g., DC, AC) of power that is different from the amount and type ofline voltage power generated by the power source 110. For example, theline voltage power can be AC power, and the LV devices 108 of the system100 require DC power to operate. In such a case, the device can includea local power transfer device (not shown). A local power transfer devicecan be used to receive line voltage power from a line voltage cable 102and to output LV power (also called a LV signal), where the LV power canbe used by the associated LV device 108. As defined herein, a LV signalhas a voltage that does not exceed approximately 42.4 VAC (root meansquare) or 60 VDC.

The power transfer device can include one or more of a number ofcomponents that alter the amount and/or a type of the line voltagepower. Such components can include, but are not limited to, atransformer (for raising or lowering a level of AC power), a rectifier(for generating DC power from AC power), and an inverter (for generatingAC power from DC power). The power transfer device can include solidstate components and/or discrete components (e.g., resistors,capacitors, diodes).

In embodiments currently used in the art, each LV device 108 (e.g., thetroffer lights 130, the can lights 150, the sensing device 140) has itsown point-of-load (POL) control device 109. Each POL control device 109(also called, among other names, a driver, an LED driver, or a ballast)is usually located within a housing of the LV device 108 and is designedto receive a LV signal. When a LV signal is received by the POL controldevice 109, the POL control device 109 provides power regulation andcontrol to the LV device 108. Each POL control device 109 currently usedin the art has only a single output channel, and so only enables asingle function (e.g., dimming, enable a particular color light) of asingle LV device 108.

Systems currently known in the art, such as the system 100 shown in FIG.1, involve at least a line voltage signal (e.g., 120 VAC-277 VAC), whichmay also include a low voltage signal (defined below). In any case, theinclusion of line voltage signals delivered to LV devices 108 (e.g.,troffer lights 130, sensing devices 140) cannot be classified as a“safe” system under currently-existing standards and/or regulations. Forexample, such a system cannot be considered a NEC Class 2 system. Asanother example, such a system cannot be considered free from risk offire and/or electrical shock.

Further, using a combination of existing technologies cannot logicallyor rationally be combined to achieve the example systems describedherein. In some cases, modifying one or more existing systems known inthe art to achieve the example systems described herein would requirechanging the entire architecture of that system, essentially renderingthe existing system inoperable. For example, an existing system known inthe art that uses a programmable logic controller (PLC) to controlindividual devices in the system would have to be prohibitively alteredto feed varying low voltage signals to devices coupled to the same PLCchannel.

As another example, a number of existing systems known in the art sendlow voltage signals to a single LV device 108, either on its own or inparallel with other LV devices 108, rather than multiple LV devices 108in series. Put another way, existing systems operate on a point-to-pointarchitecture, and so require “homerun” wiring between a device and acontroller. This architecture is, by definition, required because suchsystems known in the art operate on the PoE model. As discussed aboveand as explained blow, in some cases, example embodiments can be usedwithin a PoE architecture.

FIG. 2 shows a system diagram of a distributed low voltage power system200 in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one or moreembodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 2 may beomitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments ofdistributed low voltage power systems should not be considered limitedto the specific arrangements of components shown in FIG. 2.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the system 200 of FIG. 2 differs from thesystem 100 of FIG. 1 in several respects. The power source 110 and linevoltage cable 102 in the system 200 of FIG. 2 are substantially the sameas they are in the system 100 of FIG. 1. Further, the LV devices 208 (inthis case, the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, the controller290, and the sensing device 240 (e.g., an occupancy sensor, a daylightsensor, an air quality sensor, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor))are substantially the same as the corresponding LV devices 108 of thesystem 100 of FIG. 1, except that the LV devices 208 of the system 200of FIG. 2 may not have a power transfer device.

Specifically, the LV devices 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the canlights 250, the controller 290, and the sensing device 240) of FIG. 2may not require a power transfer device because the power that each ofthese devices receive is LV power in a type and amount (e.g., 100 W, 48VDC) used by such devices. In certain example embodiments, a LV device208 can include or be coupled to a power transfer device that receivesthe LV signal and generates, using a POL control module 209 and the LVsignal, a level and type of power used by the LV device 208. However,one or more of these LV devices 208 can have a local controller functionthat performs one or more of a number of functions. Such functions caninclude, but are not limited to, receiving instructions (as from thepower distribution module 220 or PDM 220), collecting and recordingoperational data, recording communications with the PDM 220 and/or otherdevices, and sending operational data to the PDM 220 and/or otherdevices.

The example LV devices 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights250, the sensing device 240) listed above are not meant to be limiting.Examples of other LV devices 208 that can receive and use (directly orindirectly) LV signals from the PDM 220 can include, but are not limitedto, a power source (e.g., a LED driver, a ballast, a buck converter, abuck-boost converter), a controller (e.g., a pulse width modulator, apulse amplitude modulator, a constant current reduction dimmer), akeypad, a touchscreen, a dimming switch, a thermostat, a shadecontroller, a universal serial bus charger, and a meter (e.g., watermeter, gas meter, electric meter).

The troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, the controller 290, and thesensing device 240 are each electrically coupled, directly orindirectly, to the PDM 220. The PDM 220 is electrically coupled to thepower source 110 using the line voltage cable 102. The PDM 220 caninclude a power transfer device that generates one or more of a numberof LV signals for one or more of the LV devices 208 (e.g., the trofferlights 230, the can lights 250, the sensing device 240) in the system200. The PDM 220 can have an input portion (e.g., input channel 221), anoutput portion (e.g., output channel 222, output channel 223), and thepower transfer device 229. The power transfer device 229 of the PDM 220can be essentially the same as the power transfer device described abovefor each of the devices in the system 100 of FIG. 1.

In certain example embodiments, the input portion of the PDM 220 caninclude one or more input channels 221 that receive the line voltagepower from the power source 110. When the PDM 220 has multiple inputchannels 221, each input channel 211 can have the same, or different,amount and/or type of line voltage as the other input channels 221 ofthe PDM 220. The output portion of the PDM 220 can include one or moreof a number (e.g., one, two, five, ten) of output channels (e.g., outputchannel 222, output channel 223), where each output channel (also calledan outlet channel) of the output section delivers one or more LV signalsfor use by one or more LV devices 208 of the system 200 that areelectrically coupled to that output channel of the output portion of thePDM 220.

The amount and/or type of power of the LV signal of one output channelcan be substantially the same as, or different than, the amount and/ortype of power of the LV signal of another output channel of the outputportion of the PDM 220. For example, each output channel of the PDM 220can output 100 W, 48 VDC of power (also called the LV signal). The LVsignals delivered by an output channel of the PDM 220 can be at aconstant level and/or a variable level. The LV signals can change astate (e.g., on, off, dim, standby) of one or more devices. In addition,or in the alternative, the LV signal can send data (e.g., instructions,requests, information, status).

In certain example embodiments, one or more LV cables 204 are used toelectrically couple, directly or indirectly, each of the LV devices 208(e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, the sensing device240) in the system 200 to the PDM 220. The LV cables 204 can have one ormore pairs of conductors. Each pair of conductors of the LV cable 204can deliver LV signals that represent power signals and/or communicationsignals. In some cases, a LV cable 204 has at least one pair ofconductors that carries power signals and at least one pair ofconductors that carries control signals. The LV cables 204 can be plenumrated. For example, one or more of the LV cables 204 can be used in dropceilings without conduit or cable trays.

The PDM 220 can also communicate, using an output channel (in this case,output channel 222) with one or more controllers 290 using acommunication link 206. The communication link 206 can be an Ethernetcable, a RS45 cable, and/or some other wired technology. In addition, orin the alternative, the communication link 206 can be a network usingwireless technology (e.g., Wi-Fi, Zigbee, 6LoPan). As described belowwith respect to FIGS. 7-9B, one or more communication links 206 (e.g.,Ethernet cable) can be coupled to one or more output channels of a PDM220, to an input channel of a POL control device 209, and/or to one ormore output channels of a POL control device 209, so that thecommunication links 206, in place of the LV cables 204, can deliver LVpower (with or without communication signals) to one or more of the LVdevices 208. The controller 290 can be communicably coupled to one ormore other systems in addition to the PDM 220 of the system 200.Similarly, the PDM 220 can be coupled to one or more other PDMs in oneor more other systems. The system 200 can have multiple PDMs 220, whereeach PDM 220 of the system 200 provides LV power and communicates (sendsand receives data) with each other, a controller 290, and/or one or moreLV devices 208.

In addition to the capabilities of the controller 190 listed above withrespect to FIG. 1, the controller 290 of FIG. 2 can communicate with(e.g., send instructions to, receive data about one or more LV devices208 from) the PDM 220. Instructions sent by the controller 290 to thePDM 220 can affect the operation of all devices coupled to one or moreparticular channels of the PDM 220, particular devices coupled to one ormore particular channels of the PDM 220, or any combination thereof.Communication between the PDM 220, the controller 290, and thecontrollers in one or more devices of the system 200 can include thetransfer (sending and/or receiving) of data. Communications between thePDM 220, the controller 290, and/or a LV device 208 (e.g., the trofferlights 230, the can lights 250, the sensing device 240) can be madethrough the LV cables 204 and/or the communication link 206, using wiredand/or wireless technology.

Such data can include instructions, status reports, notifications,and/or any other type of information. Specific examples of data and/orinstructions sent between the PDM 220, the controller 290, and/or a LVdevice 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, thesensing device 240) can include, but are not limited to, a light level,a light fade rate, a demand response, occupancy of an area, detection ofdaylight, a security override, a temperature, a measurement of power, ameasurement or calculation of power factor, operational status, a modeof operation, a dimming curve, a color and/or correlated colortemperature (CCT), a manual action, manufacturing information,performance information, warranty information, air quality measurements,upgrade of firmware, update of software, position of a shade, an adevice identifier.

Communications between the PDM 220, the controller 290, and/or a LVdevice 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, thesensing device 240) can be based on one or more of a number of factors.For example, communications can be based on an algorithm or formula setforth in software and/or hardware within one or more components of thesystem 200. As another example, communications can be based on eventsassociated with a LV device 208 or other component of the system. Suchevents can include, but are not limited to, light intensity, anemergency condition, demand response, passage of time, and a time sweep.Communications between the PDM 220, the controller 290, and/or a LVdevice 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, thesensing device 240) can be made through the LV cables 204 and/or thecommunication link 206, using wired and/or wireless technology.

In certain example embodiments, the PDM 220 can include communicationand diagnostic capabilities. Communications can be with the controller290, one or more devices coupled to the PDM 220, other PDMs 220 in thesystem 200, a user device, and/or any other component of the system 200.Diagnostic capabilities can be for operations of the system 200 overall,for operations of the PDM 220, for operations of one or more LV devices208 coupled to the PDM 220, for operations of one or more other PDMs inthe system 200, and/or for any other components of the system 200.

The PDM 220, the controller 290, and/or the POL controllers 209 of oneor more LV devices 208 can include a hardware processor-based componentthat executes software instructions using integrated circuits, discretecomponents, and/or other mechanical and/or electronic architecture. Inaddition, or in the alternative, the PDM 220, the controller 290, and/orthe POL controllers 209 of one or more LV devices 208 can include one ormore of a number of non-hardware-based components. An example of such anon-hardware-based components can include one or more field programmablegate arrays (FPGA).

Using FPGAs and/or other similar devices known in the art allows the PDM220, the controller 290, and/or the POL controllers 209 of one or moreLV devices 208 to be programmable and function according to certainlogic rules and thresholds without the use, or with limited use, of ahardware processor. The PDM 220 can also have one or more of a number ofother hardware and/or software components, including but not limited toa storage repository, memory, an application interface, and a securitymodule. Similarly, the controller 290 and/or a POL control module 209 ofone or more LV devices 208 in the system 200 can include one or moresoftware and/or hardware components, including but not limited to thoselisted above for the PDM 220.

FIG. 3 shows a system diagram of another distributed low voltage powersystem 300 in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one ormore embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 3 may beomitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments ofdistributed low voltage power systems should not be considered limitedto the specific arrangements of components shown in FIG. 3.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the system 300 in this case is in asingle-story, multi-occupant office building. The office building caninclude a lobby 300, a number of storage rooms (e.g., storage room 385,storage room 386), a large conference room 387, a number of office areas(e.g., office area 379, office area 382, office area 383, office area384, and office area 389), a number of small conference rooms 388, and ahallway 381 that connects all of the aforementioned office spaces. Inthis system 300, there are multiple PDMs 320, with at least one PDM 320designated for each office space.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the system 300 in this case is in asingle-story, multi-occupant office building. The office building caninclude a lobby 380, a number of storage rooms (e.g., storage room 385,storage room 386), a large conference room 387, a number of office areas(e.g., office area 379, office area 382, office area 383, office area384, and office area 389), a number of small conference rooms 388, and ahallway 381 that connects all of the aforementioned office spaces. Inthis system 300, there are multiple PDMs 320, with at least one PDM 320designated for each office space.

FIG. 4 shows a system diagram of yet another distributed low voltagepower system in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one ormore embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 4 may beomitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments ofdistributed low voltage power systems should not be considered limitedto the specific arrangements of components shown in FIG. 4.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4, the system 400 of FIG. 4 has a PDM 420 thatincludes a power transfer device 429 and has input channel 421 andoutput channel 422. The PDM 420 receives line voltage power from powersource 410 at input channel 421 through line voltage cable 402. The PDM420 communicates with one or more (in this case, three) controllers 490at output channel 422 through communication link 406. The PDM 420 alsohas three other output channels 423 (output channel 423A, output channel423B, and output channel 423C) that provide LV signals through LV cables404. Output channel 423A of the PDM 420 provides LV signals in series totwo troffer lights 430, a photocell/timer 441, and another troffer light430. Output channel 423B of the PDM 420 provides LV signals in series tothree can lights 450, a different troffer light 431, and an inverter460, which feeds AC power to a wall outlet 470 using a line voltagecable 402. Output channel 423C of the PDM 420 provides LV signals inseries to a motion sensor 440, three light troffers 430, and anothermotion sensor 440.

As discussed above, in the current art, a single POL control module(e.g., POL control module 409) is used to control a single aspect of theoperation of a single LV device. This leads to high costs, as the POLcontrol module is relatively expensive relative to the other componentsof a LV device. In certain example embodiments, a new POL control modulehaving multiple output channels is used to control multiple LV devicesand/or multiple functions of a single LV device.

The multiple output channels 423 of the PDM 420 can be utilized in anyof a number of ways. For example, one or more specific output channels423 can be used to send LV signals that are specifically addressed toparticular LV devices 408 and/or particular POL control modules 409. Forexample, if a LV signal is only intended for one or more of the LVdevices 408 coupled to output channel 423A of the PDM 420, then the PDM420 can only send the LV signal to output channel 423A and not outputchannels 423B and 423C.

As another example, the PDM 420 can send an addressable LV signal thatis intended for some, but not all, LV devices coupled to an outputchannel 423. For example, if the PDM 420 sends a LV signal throughoutput channel 423B that is only intended for the first two can lights450 and for no other LV devices 408 (in this case, the third can light450, the troffer light 431, and the inverter 460) that are coupled tothe output channel 423B, then the LV signal can only be sent to outputchannel 423B (and not output channel 423A or output channel 423C). Whenthis occurs, the POL control module 409 of the first can light 450 canreceive the LV signal, determine that only the first two can lights 450operate, and control the first two can lights 450 based on the LVsignal.

As another example, the PDM 420 can broadcast an addressable LV signalto all of the POL control devices 409 using all of the output channels423. In such a case, the addressable LV signal is intended for some, butnot all, of the POL control devices 409. When a POL control device 409receives the addressable LV signal from the PDM 420, the POL controldevice 409 can determine whether the addressable LV signal is intendedfor itself (which can include any LV devices 408 downstream of the POLcontrol device 409). If the LV signal is not intended for a particularPOL control device 409, then that POL control device 409 ignores the LVsignal. On the other hand, if the LV signal is intended for a particularPOL control device 409, then that POL control device 409 executes theinstructions of the LV signal.

For example, FIG. 5 shows a system diagram of still another distributedlow voltage power system 500 in accordance with certain exampleembodiments. Further, FIGS. 6A and 6B show a system diagram of yetanother distributed low voltage power system 600 in accordance withcertain example embodiments. In one or more embodiments, one or more ofthe components shown in FIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B may be omitted, repeated,and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of distributed low voltagepower systems should not be considered limited to the specificarrangements of components shown in FIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B.

Referring to FIGS. 1-6B, the system 500 of FIG. 5 is substantially thesame as the system 400 of FIG. 4, except as described below. The PDM 520receives line voltage power from power source 510 at input channel 521through line voltage cable 502. In this case, there is only one outputchannel 523 of the PDM 520. The output channel 523 of the PDM 520 iscoupled to an example multiple output channel POL control module 535using a LV cable 504. The multiple output channel POL control module 535functions substantially the same as the POL control modules (e.g., POLcontrol module 409) described above and currently used in the art,except that the output portion of the example multiple output channelPOL control module 535 has multiple (in this case, four) output channels(in this case, output channel 538A, output channel 538B, output channel538C, and output channel 538D). In some cases, a POL control module 535and/or a POL control device (e.g., POL control device 409) can beconsidered a LV device. Further, in some cases, the terms “POL controldevice” and “POL control module” can be used interchangeably.

In certain example embodiments, the multiple output channel POL controlmodule 535 has a body 539 and includes an input portion (in this case,defined by input channel 536) and an output portion. The output portioncan include multiple output channels (e.g., output channel 538A, outputchannel 538B, output channel 538C, output channel 538D), where eachoutput channel 538 is coupled to a LV device 508. For example, as shownin FIG. 5, each output channel 538 is coupled to a can light 550.

The multiple output channel POL control module 535 can be coupled to theLV devices 508 using one or more communication links 505. Acommunication link 505 can be a LV cable 504, a communication link(e.g., Ethernet cable) such as the communication link 206 describedabove, or some other wired technology. In addition, or in thealternative, the communication link 505 can be a network using wirelesstechnology (e.g., Wi-Fi, Zigbee, 6LoPan). The multiple output channelPOL control module 535 can be communicably coupled to one or more otherPDMs in addition to the PDM 520 of the system 500.

The output portion of the multiple output channel POL control module 535can also include an output channel 537 that allows the multiple outputchannel POL control module 535 to connect to, using a LV cable 504,another multiple output channel POL control module 535 and/or one ormore other LV devices 508. The system 500 can have multiple outputchannel POL control modules 535, where each multi-output POL controlmodule 535 of the system 500 provides power regulation and control tomultiple LV devices 508.

In this case, since the input channel 536 of the multiple output channelPOL control module 535 is connected via a LV cable 504, the multipleoutput channel POL control module 535 is classified as a Class 2 (lowpower, up to 100 Watts) device connected to a Class 2 network. Incertain example embodiments, the multiple output channel POL controlmodule 535 is a separate device from the LV devices 508 to which themultiple output channel POL control module 535 is coupled. In such acase, the multiple output channel POL control module 535 can be locatedphysically proximate to the LV devices 508 to which the multiple outputchannel POL control module 535 is coupled.

By controlling the multiple LV devices 508 of FIG. 5 with the singlemultiple output channel POL control module 535, the cost of each LVdevice 508 is lower compared to similar LV devices currently used in theart because the LV devices 508 do not need a POL control module.Further, even though multiple LV devices 508 are controlled by themultiple output channel POL control module 535, the power regulation andcontrol provided to one LV device 508 by the multiple output channel POLcontrol module 535 can be the same as, and/or different than, the powerregulation and control provided to the other LV devices 508 by themultiple output channel POL control module 535.

In addition, or in the alternative, a multiple output channel POLcontrol module 635 can be integrated with a LV device 608 (e.g., the canlight 650 of FIG. 6A). In such a case, the multiple output channel POLcontrol module 635 can provide power regulation and control that addressmultiple functions (e.g., dimming, color selection) for a single LVdevice 608. For example, as shown in the system 600 of FIGS. 6A and 6B,the can light 650 includes a multiple output channel POL control module635 that controls three different color outputs of the can light 650. Aswith the multiple output channel POL control module 535 of FIG. 5, theoutput portion of the example multiple output channel POL control module635 has multiple (in this case, three) output channels (in this case,output channel 638A, output channel 638B, and output channel 638C).

In certain example embodiments, the multiple output channel POL controlmodule 635 includes an input portion (in this case, defined by inputchannel 636) and an output portion. The output portion can includemultiple output channels (e.g., output channel 638A, output channel638B, output channel 638C), where each output channel 638 is coupled toa different portion (in this case, red LED 692, green LED 693, and blueLED 694, respectively) of the LV device 608. As such, the multipleoutput channel POL control module 635 can turn on/off each LEDindividually. The multiple output channel POL control module 635 can becoupled to the LEDs of the LV device 608 using one or more (in thiscase, one for each output channel) communication links 605. Acommunication link 605 can be substantially the same as thecommunication link 505 described above.

The input channel 636 of the multiple output channel POL control module635 can be communicably coupled to one or more devices (e.g., a PDM)using a LV cable 604. The output portion of the multiple output channelPOL control module 635 can also include an output channel 637 thatallows the multiple output channel POL control module 635 to connect to,using a LV cable 604, one or more other components (e.g., one or moreother LV devices 608) of the system 600. The system 600 can havemultiple output channel POL control modules 635, where each multi-outputPOL control module 635 of the system 600 provides power regulation andcontrol to multiple LV devices 608 and/or to multiple functions of asingle LV device 608.

In this case, since the input channel 636 of the multiple output channelPOL control module 635 is connected via a LV cable 604, LV device 608that includes the multiple output channel POL control module 635 isclassified as a Class 2 (low power, up to 100 Watts) device connected toa Class 2 network. In certain example embodiments, the multiple outputchannel POL control module 635 is part of the LV device 608 and controlsmultiple functions of the LV device 608. Examples of such functions caninclude, but are not limited to, color changing, warm dimming, CCTtuning, and up-down lights for a LV device 608 with multiple luminaires.

By controlling multiple functions of the LV device 608 of FIGS. 6A and6B with the integrated single multiple output channel POL control module635, the cost of the LV device 608 is lower compared to similar LVdevices currently used in the art because the LV devices 608 do not needmultiple POL control modules. Further, while not shown in FIGS. 6A and6B, a hybrid situation between the system 600 of FIGS. 6A and 6B and thesystem 500 of FIG. 5 can be possible, where a multiple output channelPOL control module 635 that is integrated with a LV device 608 canprovide power regulation and control for one or more functions of thatLV device 608 while also providing power regulation and control for oneor more other LV devices 608 coupled to an output channel 638 of themultiple output channel POL control module 635.

A multiple output channel POL control module (e.g., multiple outputchannel POL control module 535, multiple output channel POL controlmodule 635) can be configured and have communication capabilities(including programmability) such as those discussed above for the PDMand/or a controller (e.g., controller 290). For example, in order foreach output channel of a multiple output channel POL control module tobe individually controlled, each output channel can be configured in oneor more of a number of ways to become enabled based on the content of aLV signal, the time of day, the occurrence of an event, and/or someother trigger.

FIG. 7 shows a system diagram of yet another distributed low voltagepower system 700 in accordance with certain example embodiments. Thedistributed low voltage power system 700 of FIG. 7 is substantially thesame as the distributed low voltage power system 400 of FIG. 4(including addressability of the LV signals generated by the PDM 720 andsent to the various LV devices 708), except that the LV cables 404 ofFIG. 4 are replaced with communication links 706 in FIG. 7. In otherwords, communication links 706 (e.g., Ethernet cables) are used toprovide the LV signals from the PDM 720 to the various LV devices 708 inthe distributed low voltage power system 700 of FIG. 7.

FIG. 8 shows a system diagram of still another distributed low voltagepower system 800 in accordance with certain example embodiments. Thedistributed low voltage power system 800 of FIG. 8 is substantially thesame as the distributed low voltage power system 500 of FIG. 5, exceptthat the LV cables 504 of FIG. 5 are replaced with communication links806 in FIG. 8. In other words, communication links 806 (e.g., Ethernetcables) are used to provide the LV signals from the PDM 820 to thestand-along POL control module 835 in the distributed low voltage powersystem 800 of FIG. 8.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show a system diagram of yet another distributed lowvoltage power system 900 in accordance with certain example embodiments.The distributed low voltage power system 900 of FIGS. 9A and 9B issubstantially the same as the distributed low voltage power system 600of FIGS. 6A and 6B, except that the LV cables 604 of FIG. 6 are replacedwith communication links 906 in FIGS. 9A and 9B. In other words,communication links 906 (e.g., Ethernet cables) are used to provide theLV signals to the POL control module 935 of an LV device 908 in thedistributed low voltage power system 900 of FIGS. 9A and 9B.

Example embodiments provide a number of benefits. Examples of suchbenefits include, but are not limited to, reduction in energy usage;more simplistic installation, replacement, modification, and maintenanceof a system; qualification as a Class 2 device and/or system; compliancewith one or more applicable standards and/or regulations; less need forlicensed electricians; reduced downtime of equipment; lower maintenancecosts, avoidance of catastrophic failure; increased flexibility insystem design and implementation; prognosis of equipment failure;improved maintenance planning; and reduced cost of labor and materials.Example embodiments can also be integrated (e.g., retrofitted) withexisting systems.

Example embodiments are electrically safe. Example systems or anyportion thereof can be free from risk (or a greatly reduced risk) offire or electrical shock for any user installing, using, replacing,and/or maintaining any portion of example embodiments. For example, theLV signals that feed a device can allow a user to maintain the devicewithout fear of fire or electrical shock. While Class 2 systems andSELV/PELV/FELV are described above, example embodiments can comply withone or more of a number of similar standards and/or regulationsthroughout the world.

Although embodiments described herein are made with reference to exampleembodiments, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatvarious modifications are well within the scope and spirit of thisdisclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the exampleembodiments described herein are not limited to any specificallydiscussed application and that the embodiments described herein areillustrative and not restrictive. From the description of the exampleembodiments, equivalents of the elements shown therein will suggestthemselves to those skilled in the art, and ways of constructing otherembodiments using the present disclosure will suggest themselves topractitioners of the art. Therefore, the scope of the exampleembodiments is not limited herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A distributed low voltage power system,comprising: a power source generating line voltage power; a first linevoltage cable comprising a first line voltage end and a second linevoltage end, wherein the first line voltage end is coupled to the powersource; a first power distribution module (PDM) comprising a first powertransfer device, wherein the second line voltage end of the first linevoltage cable is coupled to the first PDM, wherein the first PDMreceives input power from the power source through the first linevoltage cable, wherein the first power transfer device generates a firstlow-voltage (LV) signal from the input power, and wherein the first PDMcomprises a first output channel; a first communication link coupled tothe first output channel of the first PDM; a first point-of-load (POL)control device of a plurality of POL control devices coupled to thefirst PDM, wherein the first POL control device is coupled to the firstoutput channel of the first PDM using the first communication link,wherein the first POL control device generates at least one firstdistributed LV signal based on the first LV signal received from thefirst PDM; and at least one first LV device coupled to the first POLcontrol device, wherein the first POL control device sends the at leastone first distributed LV signal to the at least one first LV device,wherein the first LV signal sent by the first PDM is specificallyaddressed to the first POL control device and the at least one first LVdevice, wherein the at least one first distributed LV signal providespower regulation to the at least one first LV device, and wherein onlythe first POL control device of the plurality of POL control devicesexecutes instructions of the first LV signal.
 2. The distributed lowvoltage power system of claim 1, further comprising: a second POLcontrol device coupled to a second output channel of the first PDM usinga second communication link, wherein the second POL control devicegenerates at least one second distributed LV signal based on a second LVsignal received from the first PDM; and at least one second LV devicecoupled to the second POL control device, wherein the second POL controldevice sends the at least one second distributed LV signal to the atleast one second LV device, wherein the at least one second distributedLV signal provides the power regulation to the at least one second LVdevice.
 3. The distributed low voltage power system of claim 1, furthercomprising: a second line voltage cable having a third line voltage endand a fourth line voltage end, wherein the third line voltage end iscoupled to the power source; a second PDM comprising a second powertransfer device, wherein the fourth line voltage end of the second linevoltage cable is coupled to the second PDM, wherein the second PDMreceives the input power from the power source through the second linevoltage cable, wherein the second power transfer device generates asecond LV signal from the input power, and wherein the second PDMcomprises a second output channel; a second communication link coupledto the second output channel of the second PDM; a second POL controldevice coupled to the second PDM using the second communication link,wherein the second POL control device generates at least one seconddistributed LV signal based on the second LV signal received from thesecond PDM; and at least one second LV device coupled to the second POLcontrol device, wherein the second POL control device sends the at leastone second distributed LV signal to the at least one second LV device,wherein the at least one second distributed LV signal provides powerregulation to the at least one second LV device.
 4. The distributed lowvoltage power system of claim 1, wherein the first POL control devicetracks activity of the at least one first LV device.
 5. The distributedlow voltage power system of claim 4, wherein the first PDM furthercomprises a PDM controller communicably coupled to the first POL controldevice, wherein the PDM controller is configured to send local data ofthe PDM controller to the first POL control device and receive localdata of the first POL control device from the first POL control device.6. The distributed low voltage power system of claim 5, furthercomprising: at least one additional controller of a second PDMcommunicably coupled to the PDM controller of the first PDM, wherein theat least one additional controller sends system data of the at least oneadditional controller to the PDM controller and receives system data ofthe PDM controller from the PDM controller, wherein the system data ofthe PDM controller and the at least one additional controller comprisesthe local data.
 7. The distributed low voltage power system of claim 1,wherein the first LV signal transmits direct current power.
 8. Thedistributed low voltage power system of claim 1, wherein the at leastone first LV device qualifies as a Class 2 device.
 9. The distributedlow voltage power system of claim 1, wherein the first LV signal is sentby the first PDM specifically to the at least one first LV device andthe first POL control device to which the first LV signal is addressedby the first PDM.
 10. The distributed low voltage power system of claim1, wherein the at least one LV device is used for lighting applications.11. The distributed low voltage power system of claim 1, wherein thefirst POL control device comprises multiple output channels.
 12. Thedistributed low voltage power system of claim 11, wherein the at leastone first LV device comprises a plurality of first LV devices connectedin parallel with each other, wherein each of the plurality of first LVdevices is coupled to one of the multiple output channels of the firstPOL control device.
 13. The distributed low voltage power system ofclaim 11, wherein the at least one first LV device performs a pluralityof functions, wherein each output channel of the multiple outputchannels of the first POL control device provides the power regulationand control for a function of the plurality of functions.
 14. Thedistributed low voltage power system of claim 1, wherein the firstcommunication link comprises an Ethernet cable.
 15. The distributed lowvoltage power system of claim 1, wherein the first LV signal isbroadcast to the plurality of POL control devices coupled to the firstPDM, wherein a remainder of the plurality of POL control devices has adifferent address than the first POL control device, wherein theremainder of the plurality of POL control devices receives and ignoresthe first LV signal.
 16. The distributed low voltage power system ofclaim 15, wherein the first LV signal is broadcast out of the firstoutput channel.
 17. A point-of-load (POL) control module of a pluralityof POL control modules, wherein the POL control module comprises: aninput portion configured to receive a first communication link thatcarries at least one low-voltage (LV) signal from a power distributionmodule (PDM), wherein the at least one LV signal is addressed to the POLcontrol module and at least one LV device, wherein the PDM is coupled tothe plurality of POL control modules; an output section comprising aplurality of channels, wherein at least one of the plurality of channelsof the output section is configured to be coupled to the at least one LVdevice; and a controller device electrically coupled to the inputportion and the output portion, wherein the controller device isconfigured to generate at least one distributed LV signal for the atleast one LV device based on the at least one LV signal, wherein thecontroller is further configured to send the at least one distributed LVsignal to the at least one LV device through at least one of theplurality of output channels, and wherein only the POL control module ofthe plurality of POL control modules executes instructions of the atleast one LV signal.
 18. The POL control module of claim 17, wherein theat least one distributed LV signal is sent to the at least one LV deviceusing at least one second communication link coupled to the outputsection.
 19. The POL control module of claim 17, wherein the at leastone LV signal comprises power and communication signals.
 20. The POLcontrol module of claim 17, wherein the controller device is furtherconfigured to avoid sending the at least one distributed LV signal to atleast one additional LV device coupled to at least one of the pluralityof channels, wherein the at least one additional LV device has adifferent address than the at least one LV device.